The hordes of Newcastle United fans who pack it out on match days might not have too much to shout about but iconic Newcastle pub The Strawberry is celebrating the launch of its new upstairs bar.

The famous drinking den opposite St James’ Park is set to be a hub of fan festivities when the Rugby World Cup arrives in town next weekend and owner Michael Hill said the refurbishment to its upper floor was done with one eye on the tournament.

“The rugby fixtures being announced were the kick up the backside we needed to crack on with the refurb,” he told What’s On.

“It’s an idea myself and my partner Caroline first had about a year ago but we’ve really cracked on with it since January.

“The idea was to offer something a bit different to what people are used to downstairs.”